What to Wear in Panama: Packing checklists and clothing tips for your vacation (2024)

FAQs

What to Wear in Panama: Packing checklists and clothing tips for your vacation? ›

You don't have to wear suits or high heels, but the faded T-shirts, short shorts and flip-flops that were fine in Bocas del Toro will look out of place in the city. Also: shirtless men are an absolute no-no.

You don't have to wear suits or high heels, but the faded T-shirts, short shorts and flip-flops that were fine in Bocas del Toro will look out of place in the city. Also: shirtless men are an absolute no-no.

The key is neat and sleek, and neutral colors are best. Whatever time of year you visit it will be hot and humid. During the day it's hot, so our advice is to pack lightweight, loose-fitting clothes in natural fabrics such as linen, silk, cotton and bamboo that will keep you cool and are easy to wash and dry.

Do the clothing countdown: If you need a mantra to help streamline your wardrobe, use the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rule for a weeklong trip: Limit yourself to no more than five sets of socks and underwear, four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes and one hat.

Panama's national outfit is the Gala Pollera and the Montuno. These originated in the central provinces of the country. The outfit consists of a hand made skirt and shirt, they come in all colors and designs. Here are some images of the pollera and the jewelry that is worn with it: the combs, necklaces and tembleques.

You should seek medical advice from your local health practitioner before travelling to Panama and ensure that you receive all of the appropriate vaccinations. As a guide Tetanus, Typhoid and Hepatitis A are strongly recommended. For more information visit the NHS Fit to Travel page or the CDC Traveler's Health page.

Don't wear expensive jewelry, clothing or anything that would make you stand out. No matter what, stay alert of your surroundings and stay exclusively in populated areas of town. Panama City reminds me of a little Miami, Florida (yet, probably safer) – big buildings, cosmopolitan people, an overall happy vibe.

Plan to tip around 10-15% in Panamanian restaurants. However, the exact tip amount when eating out in Panama depends on the place, occasion, and order size.

How many pajamas should you bring for a week trip? ›

Sleepwear. Whether you sleep in t-shirts and sweatpants or complete pajama sets, about two pairs of pajamas will be enough for a weeklong vacation. However, if you're someone who likes slipping into fresh pajamas every night, then you may want to pack extra loungewear, space in your luggage permitting.

The Rolling Method

To roll clothes for travel, fold along the seams and smooth out any wrinkles, then roll as tightly as possible without making any hard creases. Once in the suitcase, rolled clothes must be packed together tightly: if the roll loosens in transit, wrinkles can form.

Take care of your belongings, especially in transport hubs. Violent crime includes armed robbery and muggings. Avoid high-crime areas of Panama City. Only use ATMs in banks or shopping centres.

Carry Identification: Anyone not bearing identification may be held and will be penalized by the Panamanian authorities. You should always carry your passport that contains the Panama entry stamp in case it is requested by Panamanian authorities.

When planning your trip to Panama, choose lightweight fabrics that breathe, such as cotton or linen. Synthetic fabrics may be sheer, but they won't breathe and you'll be uncomfortably hot if you're visiting Panama City or the beach area. Stick to short sleeve or sleeveless tops, flowy skirts or cropped pants.

In Panama tipping is a question of rewarding good service rather than an obligation. Restaurant bills don't include gratuities; adding 10% is customary. Bellhops and maids expect tips only in more expensive hotels, and $1–$2 per bag is the norm. You should also give a tip of up to $10 per day to tour guides.

Entering the Red Zone

Panama's City's 'Red Zones' are areas where gangs fight each other over turf. It's a risky move to venture into them, but when some of the best skate spots in the city are there, it's worth it. Skateboarding. Travel. Save View Show.